Last Updated on July 23, 2026 by omgbart
Expanding on one of my all time favorite skincare ranges (like, ever), Kiehl’s has just launched the Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil and if you think the world didn’t need yet another cleansing oil, well, we’ve all been wrong before. While not yet a mandatory addition to the superb Midnight Recovery Concentrate or the Eye formula, this latest release is bound to compliment every routine for people of all skin types and at any age.
Why Oil Cleansing for Makeup Removal Works So Well
Popularized over the last decade or so, cleansing oils quickly achieved favorite status and an intriguing solution by the masses. And while those with oily skin may have at first been apprehensive, it is well documented that treating oil with oil is always a win win. Genius at removing makeup, softening and nourishing the skin, a proper oil cleanse, is one of the most effective ways to prep for any treatment.
Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil: First Impressions
A first for Kiehl’s, the Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil may sound like an evening solution to remove makeup, dirt and excess oil at the end of the day. However, it is actually a great option for both morning and night. Extremely lightweight, it borders on runny and evokes the same subtle herbal and relaxing aroma you may recognize from the Concentrate. Lush and luxe, this cleanse is equal parts skincare and aromatherapy.
If you’re building out a full Kiehl’s routine, the Ultra Facial Moisturizer is the natural next step after this cleanse.
What’s in This Squalane Cleansing Oil Formula
The silky texture of Kiehl’s new Cleansing Oil is fueled by olive derived, ultra nourishing Squalane and radiance boosting Evening Primrose Oil. Its blissful aroma comes from a blend of Coriander Seed, Rosemary Leaf, Geranium and Lavender Oils, making it an ideal decompressant after a long day. Slightly thinner than most cleansing oils on the market, the Midnight Recovery formula is mineral oil free and performs flawlessly all over the face, including over your eyelids.
If squalane’s your thing, it’s also the star of Kiehl’s squalane body cream — worth a look for the rest of your routine.”
How to Use Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Cleansing Oil
Oil-based makeup removers slash cleansers always go on dry skin so squirt a couple of pumps of the Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil into the palm of your hand and gently massage it in. Work it and watch as your makeup and impurities melt away with a single application. Add water to emulsify. After it turns milky, it will rinse off and leave your skin feeling clean, soft and comfortable – never dry.
My Honest Review: Is It Still Worth It?
It works brilliantly, smells heavenly and scores bonus points for its tall slim bottle and pump dispenser. Fingers crossed, Kiehl’s will release it in a jumbo size. Secretly hoping more Midnight Recovery ancillaries are in the works…
Pair it with Kiehl’s newer Ultra Facial Meltdown Recovery Cream if your skin runs reactive, and you’ve got a solid two-step Kiehl’s routine.
$38 (175ml) at Kiehls.com, Sephora.com, Ulta.com, Macys.com or £42.00 at boots.com and lookfantastic.com
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